By Jodi Schwan

Schlotzsky’s is about a month away from returning to Sioux Falls.

The restaurant is opening in part of the former Austad’s Golf space on 41^st Street west of Grange Avenue.

Franchisee Dustin Haber said equipment is being installed and exterior work – including a patio – is wrapping up.

“We’re in the process of hiring managers and bakers, and probably toward early May we’ll hire the rest of the staff,” he said. “It’s coming together.”

Schlotzsky’s left Sioux Falls about 15 years ago as part of a larger national closure. The chain since has reinvented itself, adding Cinnabon cinnamon rolls to its lineup of sandwiches, salad and pizza.

“The response we’ve received from people has been overwhelming,” Haber said. “I think people are excited for them to come back.”

The new restaurant also will be joined by another dining spot next door.

Pancheros Mexican Grill is leasing the remainder of the building for its second Sioux Falls location.

Franchisee P.J. Miller said he liked the proximity to Sioux Falls colleges and retail anchors including Costco and Fareway.

“Being on 41^st Street has always been a goal, and the distance of this location and our first location at 57^th and Louise made this a great fit,” he said. “Our first location has been doing fantastic, and we look forward to continuing to grow our brand in Sioux Falls. This brand is something we truly believe in, and our plan has always been to open multiple locations. So to see this coming true is very, very exciting for our company.”

Pancheros specializes in burritos with homemade tortillas and ingredients mixed together before serving.

Construction inside is expected to start in May, and the opening is planned for September. Miller expects to hire about 30 people starting six weeks prior to opening.